Beta – oxidation system is also called “Fatty Acid Oxidation”. This system is the main source of energy for an exercise of more than 2 – 3 minutes in duration and low intensity. Using oxygen, the body breaks down triacylglycerol (stored in the muscles and adipose tissues) to fatty acids. Then fatty acids break down to acetyl – CoA via beta – oxidation. Finally, acetyl – CoA enters into the Krebs cycle to generate ATP.

This system generates 460 ATPs from metabolizing one molecule of triacylglycerol.

Sports with Dominating Aerobic System:

The aerobic system is the dominant energy system in the following sports: